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A Robust Discovery Platform for the Identification of Novel Mediators of Melanoma Metastasis
Published on: March 8, 2022
Harnessing ctDNA in Advanced Melanoma: A Promising Tool for Informed Clinical Decisions
Rugile Pikturniene1,2, Alvydas Cesas2, Sonata Jarmalaite1,3
1Life Sciences Center, Institute of Biosciences, Vilnius University, 7 Sauletekio Ave, 01513 Vilnius, Lithuania.
Abstract:
Cutaneous melanoma, an aggressive malignancy, has undergone significant transformation in clinical management with the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted therapies. Current monitoring methods, such as imaging scans, present limitations, prompting exploration of alternative biomarkers. This review comprehensively explores the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in advanced melanoma, covering technical aspects, detection methods, and its prognostic and predictive value. Recent findings underscore ctDNA's potential applications and implications in clinical practice. This review emphasizes the need for precise and dynamic biomarkers in melanoma care, positioning ctDNA as a promising blood-based tool for prognosis, treatment response, and resistance mechanisms. The technical nuances of ctDNA detection, association with melanoma mutations, and its role in guiding therapeutic decisions for immunotherapy and targeted therapy underscore its multifaceted utility, marking a paradigm shift in clinical decision-making and offering a promising trajectory for personalized and informed care in advanced melanoma.
Insights
Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) shows promise as a blood-based biomarker for advanced melanoma, aiding in prognosis and monitoring treatment response to immunotherapy and targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Cutaneous melanoma is an aggressive cancer with evolving treatment strategies.
- Current monitoring methods like imaging scans have limitations.
- There is a need for precise, dynamic biomarkers in melanoma management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in advanced melanoma.
- To cover technical aspects, detection methods, and the prognostic/predictive value of ctDNA.
- To highlight ctDNA's potential in clinical practice for personalized care.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of ctDNA in advanced melanoma.
- Analysis of technical aspects and detection methodologies for ctDNA.
- Evaluation of ctDNA's association with melanoma mutations and treatment response.
Main Results:
- ctDNA shows significant potential as a blood-based biomarker.
- ctDNA aids in predicting prognosis and monitoring treatment response.
- ctDNA can help identify resistance mechanisms to therapies.
Conclusions:
- ctDNA represents a paradigm shift in clinical decision-making for advanced melanoma.
- It offers a promising trajectory for personalized and informed patient care.
- ctDNA facilitates dynamic monitoring and guides therapeutic decisions for immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
